Pros And Cons Of In Vitro Fertilization

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the assisted reproduction technology techniques. It allows couples to overcome fertility problems. Male and female infertility are among the major barriers for couples that want children. Depending on the definition of infertility, the number of infertile couples worldwide may vary from 48.5 million to 72.4 million (Mascarenhas et al. 9). Among other assisted reproduction technology techniques aimed at reaching pregnancy, IVF shows the highest effectiveness rate. According to Van Voorhis, in 2003 there were more than 100,000 IVF cycles in the USA, almost half of which were successful (379). Although the IVF procedure has some disadvantages, it is a major step in overcoming some fertility problems.
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One of the major drawbacks of the procedure is the risk of multiple pregnancies. This stems from the transfer of more than one embryo. Although the chances of pregnancy increase, so do the risk of multiple pregnancies that often lead to unhealthy infants (Van Voorhis 382). Another risk is a child with birth defects. According to several studies, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal birth defects occur more frequently among the infants conceived through IVF than among the naturally conceived ones (Van Voorhis 383). There are also several potential health hazards for a female. They include infections, allergic reactions, complications during birth, and others. Finally, there have been some claims that IVF infants are more vulnerable to genetic and developmental illnesses (Mahmoud, Punukollu, and Mahmood). However, those statements are not backed by scientific researches. Apart from medical aspects, the usage of IVF has been a topic of major disputes. The public acceptance has considerably increased since 1980s. Nonetheless, the term “test-tube baby” associated with IVF conceived infants has not lost its negative connotation yet (Brian). Consequently, a couple should carefully weigh the benefits and risks before turning to this